I'll inform the customer that I'm sure they can find someone cheaper than me but just tell them to make sure they have insurance. If they're just looking for me to knock a few bucks off, some greenbacks are about the only way that will happen. I'll offer some pricing options as mentioned above with full cleanup, just brush removed, or complete leave it where it landed choices. I almost always do written contracts if only to help keep a professional image but I'm a pretty good judge of character and know when a good handshake is all that's needed to assure both parties will be happy at the job's outcome.
Good answer mate.
It is worth remembering that the best time to increase your hourly gross profit is at the appraisal NOT on the job. By spending a little more time with your client BEFORE you give them a price you can have a major improvement in converting leads to jobs and banking more bucks. Try a few of these proven techniques.
#1. Ask questions rather than give answers. Everyone loves their own voice so let your client do most of the talking. Their choice of service provider almost always reflects an emotional decision rather than a rational one.
#2. Have a few "techie" tools. I think the $150 I spent on an industrial class laser pointer has made me $1000's in "wow" factor from clients.
#3. If you have a messaging service and get an sms, or a missed call, call them back immediately. Slow response or even no response to messages is the number 1 customer complaint in any service industry.
#4. Make an appointment ASAP. I recently won a $3950 tree removal job because I called the client as she was hanging up from my office. I saw her property that day and completed the work in 7 days. It took a lot of juggling with other work but I charged her a premium rate for the speed and got 1 1/2times my normal hourly rate because I asked her "what is your main reason for calling me here today?" She was getting married and the relatives were 9 days out. As soon as she said that I knew price was no issue. Otherwise I may have carved up the price to get the work and then discovered I was underpaying myself.
#5. Smile.
#6. Use Tic Tacs!
#7. Keep a photo album. Sounds corny but the impact of customers seeing "their tree" removed before it happens is profound. Pictures really do say a thousand words. Quick tip. Let them hold the album and let them browse. I love it when they look a photo and say "you use cranes? wow, my brother in law needs an arborist who can do high tech removals......"
#8. Most important Tip of All!!!! Ask them if they have already had a quote and if so how much! Some will lie, but more importantly some will tell you the truth!
Go get em! :yourock: